Hundreds of commercial ships are stranded after Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz on April 18, disrupting a route that carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.

Iranian forces reportedly fired near vessels to force them to turn back, leaving crews shaken and unable to leave the region.

Shipping companies like Hapag-Lloyd say crews are stuck for weeks, facing stress, danger from mines, and difficult conditions onboard.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that ships attempting to pass could be treated as hostile until U.S. sanctions and blockades are lifted, Fox News has reported.

The standoff has escalated tensions with the United States and raised concerns about global energy supplies and maritime safety.